Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Pantoprazole (Protonix) and Mylanta Maximum Strength (aluminum hydroxide/magnesium hydroxide/simethicone) are both used to treat stomach issues, but they work differently and are used for different purposes. Pantoprazole (Protonix) is a prescription-only proton pump inhibitor (PPI) that reduces stomach acid production and is used for conditions like GERD and erosive esophagitis. It is taken once daily and can be administered orally or via intravenous injection. Common side effects include headache and diarrhea. On the other hand, Mylanta Maximum Strength is an over-the-counter medication that combines two antacids and a gas relief agent to quickly neutralize stomach acid and relieve symptoms like heartburn, sour stomach, and gas. It is taken as needed, multiple times a day, and common side effects include diarrhea and nausea. Unlike pantoprazole, Mylanta Maximum Strength is not recommended for long-term use, and may not be suitable for people with kidney problems or those on a magnesium-restricted diet. Although it sometimes is used long-term, pantoprazole's long-term use may lead to more serious side effects like bone fractures and kidney problems.
Pantoprazole (Protonix)
Mylanta maximum strength
Pantoprazole (Protonix)
Mylanta maximum strength
Summary of Pantoprazole vs. Mylanta Maximum Strength
Summary for Proton pump inhibitor
Prescription only
Pantoprazole (Protonix) is a proton-pump inhibitor (PPI). It's used to treat symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in adults and children. It's also used to treat other conditions involving too much stomach acid, such as erosive esophagitis, in adults only. Pantoprazole (Protonix) is taken by mouth, typically once daily for most conditions. Some of the more common side effects of this medication include headache and diarrhea. Pantoprazole (Protonix) isn't available over-the-counter (OTC).
Summary for Antacid / Antiflatulent
Mylanta Maximum Strength is a combination medication containing three active ingredients: two antacids (aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide) and a gas medication (simethicone). It's used to help relieve the symptoms of heartburn, acid reflux, and gas. This medication is available over the counter (OTC) as a liquid for people ages 12 years and older. The dosage is 10 to 20 mL taken by mouth in between meals and at bedtime as needed. Possible side effects include diarrhea and nausea.
Indications of Pantoprazole vs. Mylanta Maximum Strength